Chapter One and Prologue:

Posted on Friday, 21 September 2007

It is a truth universally acknowledged, that with five daughters and an estate entailed away from the female line, Mrs. Bennet's only goal in life was to marry off the girls to the first eligible gentlemen to come around. However little known the views the daughters may have on such gentlemen matter not to such a mercenary mama.

The beautiful Jane, The clever Elizabeth, the bookish Mary, the immature Kitty, and the Wild Lydia. Each one although entirely different, were bound together with one wish...They each wanted to marry for love. Now each girls' description of love, may have been entirely different, except those opinions of Elizabeth and Jane, on this they were in complete agreement. Yet, with such a mother, their chances were slim in finding such a man, for she was determined to "unload" her daughters on the first men that condescended to ask her, or rather Mr. Bennet, for one of their hands in marriage.

So the clever Elizabeth devised a scheme, into which each sister would be able to escape unwanted situations with unwanted attentions. Simple gestures, which would not have any significant meaning to any person who happened to catch such a signal, unless they were truly observant; but to the sisters, it would be a plea for assistance, in their escape of a gentleman's attentions, or a signal with a desire of privacy with one of themselves. The girls all readily agreed to the plan, even Mary could see no fault with it.

It was then that these gestures were planned out carefully, and I would be lying dear reader, if I said that the girls had no use for such a system, just the opposite in fact. Jane avoided more then a few unwanted proposals, and Elizabeth managed to escape one or two herself. This system brought the sisters closer together, Kitty took more to the influence of her elder sisters, and even Lydia was improved in her behaviour, being attentive to the subtle hints of distress, and Mary was drawn more from her silent reverie, in an attempt to protect her sisters, because so far, she had no need for the system for herself. They were all content with their lives, and nothing disturbed the peace of Longbourn, or touch the hearts of the Bennet girls, but little did they know, that soon Netherfield Park would be let at last.

The Bennet girls were praised all 'round Hertfordshire of their beauty and grace, and manners (Yes, manners!). Although the same could not be said for the mother, there was little to reproach the daughters with. How they had managed to remain unmarried was a mystery to all, for you would be considered one of the luckiest men in all of England to gain the favour of even the youngest girl, Lydia, or the plainest, but not so very plain Mary. To all of Hertfordshire, they were gems, each and everyone, and to the men that found themselves besotted with one of the girls, they were deemed to be goddesses (although angels might have been a more appropriate term). This being the case, that none had married was incredible, especially since the eldest Jane, was the most beautiful and sweet tempered woman that had ever lived, and the second eldest Lizzy, with her quick wit and fine eyes had entranced many a man. There were rumours about the sisters possessing magic, and only wished to torment the suitors, like the goddesses of the old, and others equally ridiculous, but nonetheless the rumours and speculations spread. When the Netherfield party had arrived, they could not but hear the rumours of these bewitching women.

The Bingley carriage approached Netherfield about a quarter to one, as is slowly pulled to a stop in front of the estate, a short, stout servant moved towards the carriage to open the door and let the new master and family to view Netherfield.

The first to appear out of the carriage was a man, no more then three and twenty, with red hair and a joyous smile upon his face.

“Thank you my good man!” he said, tipping his hat to the servant.

The servant bowed humbly before his master, and then turned to view the next man to step out.

This man was taller then the first gentleman, a few years older, with rich dark brown hair, but with a scowl across his countenance, and if you looked closely enough, a sadness about his eyes.

“Darcy,” said the first man. “Cheer up, it will do you no good to be so grim, we are here, and we might as well enjoy ourselves here, in fact I think I already am.”

The taller gentleman rolled his eyes at his friend’s eagerness before responding; “I think that is a bit presumptuous even for you Bingley, I believe…” he was cut off by a loud clearing of a throat.

The two men turned to look at a woman, still seated in the carriage, her hand outstretched from the door of the carriage, waving furiously, obviously annoyed at being ignored.

The gentlemen shrugged their shoulders, and the taller man took her hand to help her out of the carriage. The woman, who looked the spitting image of her brother, smiled prettily, “Thank you Mr. Darcy.”

Darcy bowed his acknowledgment, and then the woman turned her attention to her brother. “Charles, are we to be left standing out here all day, or may we be permitted to enter our own home?”

Mr. Bingley, who was busy admiring the estate, turned to his sister. “Yes, Caroline, I am sorry here let me lead the way.”

Bingley was making his way towards the entrance, and there was nothing to do but follow, as Darcy began moving to do just that, Miss Bingley cleared her throat once again, looking at him expectantly. He sighed, there was nothing to do but to offer her his arm. She accepted it and batted her eyelashes at him coquettishly before they made their way to follow Bingley.

As could be predicted, no more then a week after their arrival at Netherfield, Misters Bingley and Darcy were being called upon by the gentleman of Hertfordshire, most of whom came with the expressed purpose to throw their unmarried daughters in the way of these very eligible and very rich men. Each one dropping not so subtle hints as to their reasons for coming, and hoping to see them soon at one gathering or another. Yet, out of all the fathers that had come to call, the one with whom they were speaking with at the moment was the one most trying on Darcy’s nerves. Indeed, for this blundering idiot seemed to mutter the same phrase within every sentence. ‘Capital! Capital!’

“Capital! Capital!” bellowed the man. Darcy cringed.
‘Is that all you can say?’

“We would be delighted to join you Sir William.” Bingley bellowed.

‘Oh no! What have you agreed to now Bingley?’ Darcy thought.

“Capital!” he then turned to Darcy, “I hope you have come here eager to dance as well.”

“Sir William,” Bingley interjected, “Darcy does not dance if he can help it. Only on rare occasions does he partake in that form of amusement.”

“Well let this be one of the occasions,” he paused to look at his watch. “I think I should be going, Mr. Bingley, Mr. Darcy.” He gave a low bow and then left the two men in the study.

Once the door had closed behind him, Darcy let out an audible sigh. “Bingley, how many more of these interviews must we endure?”

“There is one more today I think, and I am quite looking forward to this acquaintance.”

“And why would that be?”

“Well, for one, they are the most noble family in the area…”

“Ah but that is not saying much now is it, my friend?”

Bingley ignored his comment and continued. “Second, they live not but three miles from Netherfield, and thirdly, after hearing so much of this gentleman’s family, particularly the daughters, I am most anxious to meet the man.”

Darcy’s eyes shot up at this last bit of information. “Mr. Bennet?”

Bingley gave him a nod, before standing from his chair and moving towards the drink cart. He poured himself a glass and then turned to Darcy to offer him a drink. He shook his head, and Bingley shrugged his shoulders and moved to sit back into his chair.

It was not that Darcy was interested in the gentleman, per say, but after the rumours he had heard of the daughters, even he was intrigued with the stories he had heard.

His reverie was interrupted by a servant’s entrance, “A Mr. Bennet, to see you sir.”

At that moment, an older gentleman appeared in the doorway, his hair was white, with a receding hairline and had a scraggly beard about his face. He looked the two gentlemen over, and gave a quick bow, which was returned by the other two.

“Mr. Bennet, it is a pleasure to make your acquaintance.” Said Bingley.

Chapter 2:

Posted on Saturday, 29 September 2007

Mr. Bennet’s carriage was pulling up to the Netherfield steps, just as Sir William Lucas was taking his leave of the new tenants. As much as he enjoyed his neighbor’s follies, and tendency to repeat the same phrase within every sentence he uttered, Mr. Bennet did not find these amusements to be so diverting today, as he would usually have found them. Indeed, his sardonic mind was to interested in his new neighbors to enjoy much of anything else at the moment.

Mr. Bennet gave a quick bow of his head to acknowledge his neighbor, but it seemed that this would not due for Sir William, who had taken it upon himself to reiterate everything that he had discussed with the same man that he was on his way to visit. After a not so brief discussion, he was finally able to extricate himself from Sir William, and made his way into the house. He handed the servant his calling card, and the servant left him to announce his presence to the others.

Mr. Bennet stood in the hallway, awaiting the servant’s return, and smiling to himself, while imagining what his wife would say to him once she found out that he had indeed, visited their new neighbors.

He let out a chuckle about the raptures that would await his return…and then his face grew grim, as he imagined the raptures that would await his return. “Ah, well that is what the library is for, is it not?” he pondered aloud.

“Excuse me, sir? Did you say something?” the servant had just returned to fetch him to the library, and had overheard Mr. Bennet’s remark.

“No, nothing at all.” He smiled.

The servant looked at him questioningly, after a moment he let out a sigh and bade Mr. Bennet to follow him to the library.

When he was announced and then moved to stand inside of the doorway. His attention was first caught, of course, by the books, and with just a momentary glance, did he notice that it was apparent that Mr. Bingley, as he was called, was not an avid reader. He smiled and inward smile and thought to himself, that it would cost him Lizzy, for he knew his favorite daughter enjoyed reading as much as himself. ‘Ah well, it is his loss, and now I do not have to give her up.’

He then turned his attention to the gentleman, or should I say gentlemen, for there were two of them, to Mr. Bennet’s surprise. The first one, had red hair, and was obviously the younger of the two. His countenance bespoke a happiness and contentment with the world that rivaled Jane’s. The second of the two was taller, with dark hair and an expression to match. He seemed much more reserved then his friend, and had an air that spoke of a pride in his station.

The happier gentleman stepped forward to greet him.

“Mr. Bennet, it is a pleasure to make your acquaintance.” He spoke with such enthusiasm and warmth, and shook his hand so eagerly that it was obvious to Mr. Bennet, that the reputation of his family, well his daughters, had preceded him.

He gave the man a wry knowing smile, “I am sure it is, and may I say the same to you sir.”

Mr. Bingley thanked him, and then turned to his friend. “And, may I introduce my good friend, Mr. Darcy.”

“You may, sir.” Mr. Bennet replied, with mock seriousness that was lost upon the other two men.

Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy stared and looked at the man blankly, while Mr. Bennet smiled inwardly.

“Ah, yes well, this is my good friend Mr. Darcy.” Mr. Bennet gave a bow.

Mr. Darcy stood aghast. The audacity of this man! Somehow he was able to stop himself from showing his complete and utter shock. “Mr. Bennet.” He replied with a bow of his own.

The men stood in silence for a moment, and since it appeared, to Mr. Bennet at least, that his host was going to continue doing so, he decided to take the matters into his own hands. He moved towards a seat and sat down, raising his brow to see how his host would react.

It had the desired effect; Mr. Bingley took the hint and moved to take the seat at his desk, while Mr. Darcy, instead of preferring a seat himself, he decided to move towards the window, and proceeded to stare outside.

Mr. Bingley broke the silence. “Sir, my friend and I have heard much about you. Where is your estate?” asked nervously.

“It is but three miles from here,” he answered. “But you knew that already didn’t you?”

Mr. Bingley blushed, and Mr. Bennet let out a laugh. “I must admit that I had heard something of it, from Sir William.”

“Ah yes, Sir William, I met him upon my arrival here, I am afraid that is why I was late.”

Mr. Bingley went on to say that he was not so very late at all, but his visitor ignored him, and turned to eye the other man who was gazing out the window so intently. ‘Is that a smile?’ Mr. Bennet thought.

Mr. Bennet turned back to face his host who was still speaking, “…And before the visit was over, we were invited to attend the Assembly two days hence.”

Now the gentleman at the window turned to look at his friend in surprise. “When did we agree to this Bingley” Mr. Darcy asked.

‘He speaks!’ Mr. Bennet thought.

“You were there Darcy, honestly, how could you not remember?”

‘Yes Darcy, how could you not remember?’ Mr. Bennet turned expectantly towards Mr. Darcy, a small smile about his lips, and a mischievous gleam in his eye.

Seeing that both gentleman were expecting him to answer, and knowing that he had no explanation simply replied, “Yes, it must have simply slipped my mind.”

“I am sure it did, sir.” Mr. Bennet answered.

A stunned Darcy looked on at the man in front of him in silence, but before he could even think of how to formulate a reply, his friend said, “Yes, and I accepted, you may stay home if you would like Darcy, but as for me I would not miss it for the world.”

“Surely Mr. Darcy, you are not thinking of not attending?” he paused, when an amusing idea came to him. “Think of all the disappointed mothers, your absence would create. Not the least of which would be my wife.”

Darcy stood there confused at the rather singular man sitting before him. He let out a sigh of defeat, “All though I would most prefer to stay here, I believe I must make an appearance,” then turning to his friend he scowled. “But I will not dance!”

“Capital!” Mr. Bennet said. Darcy grimaced. ‘Oh God, not another one!’

The interview ended shortly after, and after Bingley said that he would call on the ‘morrow, Mr. Bennet took his leave.

“Well Darcy, I daresay that I have never met a more singular gentleman in all of my life.” His friend said happily.

“Impertinent is more like it,” He huffed. ‘And I expect that his daughters be no different.’

“Lydia, Kitty?” Jane asked as her two youngest sisters ran passed her giggling. The two girls stopped and turned to their sister.

“Jane, have you heard? Papa has visited Mr. Bingley! I have heard it from the servants that he had gone to Netherfield yesterday, and now Mr. Bingley is expected to call upon us today!” Kitty spoke with enthusiasm.

“I had not heard,” replied a surprised Jane. “And I think it is safe to say that Mama has not either.”

“Oh yes, she would be a fright if she knew.” Lydia added.

“Yes, I think we may safely agree on that, but it is not fair to her to remain ignorant, and I daresay that she will be even more frightful if she is faced with such a man and had not time to prepare for it. I shall go to her directly, would you mind finding Lizzy? I have something that I need to discuss with her.”

“Yes Jane,” the girls said in unison as they skipped off into the garden to search for their sister.

Jane set off for the library and was about to knock upon the door when it suddenly opened and her father came out followed closely behind by Mrs. Bennet.

“For we may not visit if you do not as you well know Mr. Bennet!” cried his wife.

“Papa, you have not told her yet?” Jane asked chasing after them.

“Told me what child? Oh never mind there are more important matters to attend to! Try to talk some sense into him Jane, for heaven knows that I have tried. Your father insists that he will not visit Mr. Bingley, you know Jane, the one who has let Netherfield, well if he does not visit, then how is he to marry one of you?”

“Marry one of us? Mama! We have not even met the gentleman, and yet you are talking of us marrying him?”

“Well that is not likely to happen, for your father refuses to call upon him!”

Jane turned to look at her father. “Has this not gone on long enough? Tell her!”

“Jane, there is no use talking to him his mind is made up, oh where is Lizzy when I need her? Silly girl! Never around when she is wanted but always present when I have no use for her!”

Jane gave her father an admonishing look and he sighed. “Well perhaps she will be of some use to you, I daresay Mr. Bingley might like her best.”

“We have no knowledge of what Mr. Bingley would like, because it is you who refuse to visit! Do you have no compassion on my nerves? It is all no difference anyway, many an eligible man has come into this neighborhood, and my instincts told me that they had loved some or other of my daughters, and yet they are still unwed? I am starting to believe that none of them want to get married…” Mrs. Bennet paused to think of this idea and then let out an unladylike snort. “Hah! No, that could not be possible!”

By now all of the Bennet daughters had arrived in the room and with her mother’s last comment, they each gave a glance to each other, a secret smile alighting their eyes.

By now Mr. Bennet decided to take pity upon his poor wife, and was about to tell her of their guests who would be arriving soon, but before he could open his mouth to speak, the servant came in and announced, “Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley to see you sir.”

Mrs. Bennet was so shocked that she let out a cry of, “Oh! My nerves!” before fainting flat onto her back.

"Mama!" Jane cried.

Mr. Bennet stood up immediately, and told Lizzy to go find Hill.

"Yes, Papa." Lizzy said, and she ran out of the room to find Hill, so preoccupied was she, that she did not see the two gentleman in front of her and she collided straight into Mr. Darcy knocking them both to the ground.

"Oh!" she cried. "I am so sorry! I..."

"It is all right Miss.", was his clipped reply. He stood and dusted himself off, without offering her his hand to help her up. Once he was pleased that most of the dust was off of his coat, he turned to Lizzy and said, "Is your master at home? We were told that a servant would be back shortly to bring us to him."

She stared at the man with disgust, but pulled herself up with as much dignity as possible and dusted off her own skirts, she was about to give him a curt reply that she was not a servant when she had a thought, and with a mischievous gleam in her eyes, turned back to the gentleman and his friend and gave him a low, and respectful curtsey. "Mr. Bennet is awaiting you in the parlor." She bade them to follow her and she made her way back to the parlor when her sisters came running out of the room and passed by her to see to the care of their mother. The younger girls ran by without stopping, but Jane stopped to speak with her sister not noticing the strangers standing behind her, "Lizzy, she is upstairs, she will be alright, just in shock, and I think it would be best if we all were up there with her."

Lizzy gave her sister a curtsy and smiled, "Miss Jane, I will be up shortly to help Mrs. Bennet, just as soon as I direct Mr. Bennet's guests into the parlor."

Jane looked puzzled by her sister's strange behavior, and raised her brow, but Lizzy gave a polite curtsy and moved on towards the parlor.

She opened the door and stepped through, gave a curtsy and said, "Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley to see you sir."

Mr. Bennet eyed his daughter curiously as the gentlemen entered the room.

"Ah, it is a pleasure to see you both again." Mr. Bennet bowed, and the others did in turn.

"Will you be needing anything else, Mr. Bennet?" Lizzy asked with an impish grin.

He stared at his daughter, just as confused as Jane was, by her peculiar behavior. "N-no, that will be all." She gave him and the other men a curtsy and excused herself. Once she was out of the room, she burst out into a melodious laughter.

The Bennet girls remained with their mother for the entire time that the gentleman left. Once they were gone, the girls descended the stairs, and joined their father in his library.

When they entered, Mr. Bennet was sitting at his desk with a book, “What Lizzy? No announcement? You are becoming quite remiss with your duties…perhaps I should take Mr. Darcy’s suggestion and let you go?” He continued to look at his book, but a wry smile was on his lips.

“Oh, I truly hope you will let me stay, I love you all so much, it is almost as if I am a part of this family!”

At this her father let out a hearty laugh, he set aside his book and looked at his daughters. “Well, my children, what do you say? Should we give Lizzy another chance?”

“I don’t know Papa, she did run over Mr. Darcy.” Mary smiled.

“Then again, she is a constant source of amusement.” Lydia countered.

“She isn’t to horrible to look at.” Kitty added, and they all laughed.

“Very well, Lizzy, your job is safe…for the moment.”

“Thank you sir, and you Misses Bennet, for your heartfelt support!” she gave an exaggerated curtsy.

“Now, all this nonsense aside, what happened to make the two gentlemen believe that one of my daughters, was one of my servants?”

He motioned for them to sit, and they did so, while Lizzy explained what events happened, prior to Mr. Bennet’s visit with the two men.
“My first response was disgust, I wanted to correct him and make him embarrassed about his comment, but then I just thought that it would be more fun this way, and I was right.” She laughed.

“I still cannot fathom how he could mistake you for a servant though.” Said Mr. Bennet.

“Well I had just come from my walk, my clothes were not much different then a servants’ and with all the dirt, is there any question why he mistook me for a servant?”

“You did look a fright when we passed you by!” Lydia exclaimed.

“That I did.” She turned back to father, “and what did the gentlemen have to say of your Five, forgive me, four daughters and your Servant?”

“I do not think I am at liberty to discuss such things.” He replied.

“Papa!” came a shout from all of his daughters in unison.

“Leave me, my silly children.” He laughed and waved them off with his hand, as they were exiting though he added, “But I think that you should be ready to meet them tomorrow at the Assembly.”

Chapter 3

Posted on Sunday, 7 October 2007

A/N: Lines from the 2005 movie are in this chapter.

It is to be understood that when two sisters are only separated between a year in age, and share the same hopes and dreams, that they would be inseparably close. So it was only natural that from the age they had left the nursery for their own rooms, that they would visit each other during the night to speak and play, their parents unaware of their nightly visits. When the other girls were born, and all had to leave the nursery, the luxury of ones own room was not possible. Three rooms, and five daughters, was a problem that their parents had not wanted to face. Eventually, after to many disagreements by half, the present arrangement was made. Jane and Lizzy would share a room, as would Lydia and Kitty, while Mary would get the last room. This suited them all quite well, except for Lydia who had wanted her own room, but Kitty refused to share a room with Mary. So for the first and last time in her childhood, Kitty had gotten what she wanted over Lydia. This was all before their coming out into society and their newfound closeness, but even though the sisters had become closer then they had ever been before, Jane and Lizzy’s nightly chats still remained. As they say, “Old habits die hard.”

Lizzy moved from her position on the bed towards her sister who was sitting at the vanity taking the pins down from her hair. Her blonde curls cascaded down her back. Lizzy reached for the brush and began to comb out the tangles.

“So Jane, what do you think of our new neighbors?”

“I have not had the pleasure of meeting them as you have Lizzy, to be honest, I was to worried about Mama to even notice them standing behind you. I was also confused by your behavior.”

“Miss Bennet, are you saying that I do not comport myself well as a servant? Are you agreeing with Mr. Darcy of Pemberley that I should be dismissed? I wondered at your silence when Mr. Bennet entreated his children to know if I should be allowed to be given another chance, and now I know.”

“Lizzy!” Jane laughed at her sister’s teasing.

“In all seriousness Jane, I do not consider that encounter with much pleasure, to be sure I had my fun, but I do not think that Mama will find a son in them…well at least not Mr. Darcy.”

“Perhaps it was…” Jane sentenced went unfinished as a knock was heard at the door.

“Come in,” Lizzy said.

Mary’s head poked through the door with an expression of uncertainty.

“Do you need something?” Jane asked, trying to make her sister feel more at ease.

“I-I was just wondering if I-we could join you?” she whispered. Her head was bowed in uncertainty and she held her hands behind her back.

“We?” Jane asked.

“W-we.” Came a small voice from inside the hallway.

Jane and Lizzy looked to each other, and began to laugh.

“Oh! We are sorry to disturb you, we will be going now.” Mary turned to leave the room, but was stopped by Lizzy.

“Wait, you are not disturbing us, you are welcome here anytime, Mary,” she then turned to the doorway, “Lydia, Kitty, would you get in here already?” Lizzy laughed.

The two youngest sisters entered looking just as guilty as Mary had and Lizzy and Jane’s laughter only increased.

“What is so funny?” Lydia asked.

“You three look as if you have done something horrible! We do not bite you know.” Jane smiled.

“We did not know if we would be welcome…” Kitty said quietly.

“Of course you are welcome here!” Lizzy and Jane cried.

“We are?” Mary asked with uncertainty.

“Why ever would you think that you would not be?” Jane asked.

“We thought that we might be intruding upon your conversation.” Mary said.

“Well you are not. You are welcome to join us if you wish!” Lizzy smiled.

“Please!” cried the girls, and the two eldest laughed again.

“You are always welcome here, we enjoy talking with you just as much as with each other, I thought you would have know that by now.” Jane said.

The three girls smiled gratefully for the reassurance, and asked them of what they were talking before they had arrived.

“Well, we were discussing our new neighbors.” Jane said innocently.

“Indeed? And do you find them pleasing?” Mary laughed.

“I had asked her the same Mary, and she does not respond, saying that she has not even met them formally yet, but all of that will change tomorrow and we shall here her opinion, although I doubt that it will be anything less then the praises of both of their characters.” Lizzy teased. Jane opened her mouth to deny it but Lydia cut her off.

“I would expect no less from such a kind heart, but to be honest, I wish to hear of your opinion Lizzy, as you spent the most time in their company, and I am positive that you would not gloss over their…faults.”

“I daresay that I should be insulted, but why when it is the truth, Jane is too good, and me, well I am too honest aren’t I?”

They all laughed at Jane's blush and her fervent denial of being at all like they said, to this they just rolled their eyes. The Bennet girls talked into the night on a variety of subjects, not the least of them being the Assembly on the ‘morrow.

Music resounded from the Assembly Hall as the Bennet carriage pulled up to the entrance. Mr. Bennet stepped out and then handed down his wife and daughters. He told the driver the time to pick them up and then signaled them on. He turned to his family and his wife took his arm, while their daughters fell in line behind them. When they entered, the room turned to look at the new arrivals, the men all held their breath at the sight of the Bennet girls, while the women sniffed with disdain.

The girls pretended not to notice, and separated from their parents. As the music was not to start for another half hour, the sisters moved to find a seat. It was but five minutes before they were surrounded by admirers, although they stood in a semi circle around them, they remained several feet away, as if there were a force field surrounding the girls, but there was not, it was just the men's shyness and pride that kept them away, for who would want to be turned down for a dance in front of this crowd. It was not just that though, for each wanted to keep that happy illusion that they were a favorite of the beautiful Bennet sisters, that a refusal to dance would surely shatter.

It was not that they could refuse, for propriety dictates that once you refuse a dance, then you must sit out for the rest of the evening, but by some mysterious way, they would always be able to refuse to stand up with someone in such a way that would flatter the asker, and allow her to dance with someone else in the evening. The Bennet girls were well aware of the circle that they were contained in, and that if they were to ever escape it, then they must agree to dance with someone. The announcement was made that the dancing would commence shortly and you could see the men becoming eager and restless. The girls could hear the whispers of "You do it." and "No I think I would rather sit this one out." all throughout the throng of gentlemen. Finally a brave soul ventured forth and gave a deep bow. The Bennet girls turned to look at the man, and stood to give their curtsies. He turned to look at Mary and addressed her, "Miss Mary, if you are not otherwise engaged, would you do me the honor of dancing the first two dances with me?" The man held his breath awaiting the verdict, while the other gentlemen around them were silenced.

Mary's eyes widened and she bit her lip. She did not want to dance with him, for she had before and she found him to be a great bore, with no conversation and no skill at dancing. He had been pursuing her for the past three months, and he could not take the hint that she had no desire for his company, nor did she derive any pleasure from it.

"Mr. Geralds, it appears that you shall be disappointed," Lydia said noticing her sisters distress. "for Papa insisted that she stand up with him for the first set."

Mr. Geralds looked disappointed, but not discouraged and he was about to ask Mary for the second set when Lydia addressed her sister. "Mary, I think Papa is looking for you, as the set is already forming." She grabbed her sister's hand and led her out of the throng and to her parents, Mary gave her sister's hand an appreciative squeeze before Lydia ran off towards her sisters. Mary explained the situation and he father readily agreed to dance with his daughter.

Lydia reentered the circle, and sat next to Kitty. Another admirer had worked up his courage and was approaching Jane. Jane tossed her sister a glance and before the gentleman to get any closer, Lizzy spoke up. "Oh Jane, look! There's Charlotte!" she grabbed her sister's hand and pulled her out of the circle, leaving the man staring at their backs as they made their way to Charlotte Lucas. All of the eyes then turned upon the youngest Bennet girls who looked at each other in silent agreement and stood up as the music was starting. "Come Kitty, let us dance." and the sisters moved to join the set, leaving all of the admirers staring at each other confused on what had just happened.

Charlotte Lucas turned and saw her two dear friends making their way towards her from a circle of gentlemen and smiled knowingly. She moved aside making room for them to sit when they approached.

"I see you have taken to using me as an escape again, my dear Lizzy."

"Charlotte you are increasingly invaluable to us, I do hope you know that."

"Now who owes their thanks to me this time? Whose happiness for the next half hour did I save?"

Lizzy gave a laugh as Jane blushed. "Dear Jane, I am happy to be of some use to you." Charlotte laughed. "But I must advise you two, not to discourage every eligible man who comes to ask you to dance, for I do not think spinsterhood would suit either of you."

"Oh, you know we will only marry for love." Lizzy laughed, but meant it in all seriousness.

"I believe that I would marry for comfort, it is all the same you know."

"No it is not, it is not the same Charlotte."

The three friends laughed and turned to watch the dance, "I see that your other sisters have escaped as well, look at Lydia and Kitty dancing, smart idea that was."

"Yes, I am glad they were able to escape, for on my rescuing Jane, I am afraid I left them to the lions, but they were not left alone so it was not so bad." Lizzy said and then turning to her sister added, "Now if every man in the room does not end the evening in love with you, then I am no judge of beauty!"

"Or Men." Jane smiled.

"No, they are far to easy to judge!" Lizzy teased.

"They are not all bad."

"Humorless poppycocks in my limited experience."

"One of these days, Lizzy someone will catch your eye, and then you will have to watch your tongue."

The dancing ended and as the music stopped, the assembly doors opened and three figures walked into the room. Elizabeth instantly recognized Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley, the third person, she did not know, but by the looks of her, she closely resembled Mr. Bingley, and she deduced that the woman was his sister. Mary moved through the crowd and approached her sisters to get a better view of the gentleman who had just walked in. She leaned in and whispered to Charlotte, "So which of the painted peacocks is out Mr. Bingley?"

"Well he's on the right, and on the left is his sister."

"And the person with the quizzical brow?"

"That is his good friend Mr. Darcy."

"He looks miserable poor soul," Jane added.

"Miserable he may be, but poor he most certainly is not."

"Tell me." Lizzy said.

"Ten thousand a year, and he owns half of Derbyshire."

"The miserable half?" Lizzy teased.

Jane looked to admonish her sister when the very man they were speaking of approached them, along with the rest of the party.

The lowered their heads as they gave their curtsies, but not before Lizzy could see Mr. Darcy look at her, and then do a double take. She held her laughter in until he was further up the line, "Jane, I think he recognized me." she laughed.

On Mr. Darcy's side however there was nothing of amusement in his mind, 'Oh God! Was that the servant girl? No, a servant would never be allowed to attend an Assembly...Is there a chance that she is a Bennet? I only counted four as they rushed passed...no! It was merely someone who looked like her, uncanny resemblance though.' But as he thought this there was still a doubt in his mind as he heard a melodious laughter from behind him, the same he had heard at Longbourn, after the servant girl had left.

While Mr. Darcy was trying to figure out his thoughts, the music started up and Mrs. Bennet screeched to her husband. "Oh Mr. Bennet you must introduce him to the girls, immediately!" She rushed across the set and grabbed Kitty and Lydia, before finding the other three, she dragged Jane who grabbed onto Lizzy who held onto Charlotte who started pulling Mary. She led them up to the front to stand in front of the three strangers. When Mr. Darcy saw that Elizabeth was among the party a deep blush crept across his face and his eyes widened in shock. On her part, Elizabeth was hard pressed not to burst into peals of laughter, and by the look on her sister's countenances they were in the same predicament.

"Mr. Bingley," Sir Lucas started. "My eldest daughter you know." Charlotte gave a low curtsy and Sir Lucas gave a wink to Mr. Bingley, who ignored him.

"Mrs. Bennet, Miss Jane Bennet," he paused as they gave their curtsies and Mr. Darcy held his breath, praying to God that his suspicions were wrong.

"Miss Elizabeth," Lizzy gave her curtsy, and gave smirk in Darcy's direction. "Miss Mary, Miss Catherine, and Miss Lydia Bennet."

"I am delighted to make your acquaintance!" Mr. Bingley said, while staring at Jane, making her blush prettily.

"It is a pleasure!" Mrs. Bennet simpered.

"And may I introduce, Mr. Darcy, of Pemberley in Derbyshire."

They all gave their curtsies once again, but Elizabeth's was lower and more dramatic, like the one she had given the day before. Her meaning was not lost on Darcy who wished himself to disappear, but such a thing was not to be. The dance ended and he got half of his wish, as Bingley escorted the two eldest Bennet girls away, leaving Darcy...alone...with Caroline.

"It is just like my brother is it not? To walk away with two pretty faces leaving us to ourselves." came her shrill voice.

Darcy nodded his head and moved away from her. He began circling the room, discouraging all those who tried to converse with him, he ended up standing not far off from where his friend was conversing with the two eldest Bennet sisters. Although he was not one for eavesdropping, there was nothing else for him to do and he could not help but over hear their conversation.

"How do you like it here in Hertfordshire, Mr. Bingley?" Jane asked.

"Very much!" was his enthusiastic reply. A short pause followed, and it was all Bingley could do not to stare at Jane, and he was failing miserably at it.

"The library at Netherfield, I've heard is one of the finest in the county." Lizzy added.

"Yes, it fills me with guilt, I'm not a very good reader, you see, I prefer being out of doors." He answered still trying and failing to not stare at Jane. He paused, before quickly adding, "Oh I mean, I can read of course, and I'm not suggesting that you can't read out of doors, of course."

"I wish I read more, but there always seems to be so many other things to do."

"Yes, that's exactly what I meant!" he said. Elizabeth seeing that Mr. Bingley obviously liked her, and that Jane had no desire to be rescued excused herself, and to her delight, it seemed that neither of them mourned the loss of her company. She went to seek out her sisters who were sitting, and talking with Maria Lucas, giggling to them about how the militia will be arriving soon. Kitty and Lydia found her to silly for their tastes, but were polite and excused themselves as quickly as possible. Lizzy approached them as they were doing their best imitation of their silly neighbor. "Kitty, Lydia, You will never ever believe what we are about to tell you?" Lydia giggled.

"Well tell me quickly then." Kitty said.

"The regiment are coming!" she squealed.

"Officers?" Kitty asked calmly.

"They are to be in town the whole winter, not but a mile from Meryton!" Lydia said breathlessly.

They began to twirl each other about as Lizzy began to laugh at them. "And whom are you mocking now?"

"Maria Lucas, she came upon us in this manner trying to get us to squeal and giggle like nitwits about the officers. I daresay they might he good company, but why would we act in such a manner?" Lydia asked incredulously.

"Do not be so harsh on her dears, she is but fourteen."

"We will try, if only to please you Lizzy." Kitty smiled.

"Oh! Look Jane is dancing! La! It is with Mr. Bingley!" Lydia cried.

The girls turned to watch as Jane and Mr. Bingley made their way down the line. They were smiling and laughing, obviously enjoying themselves, the onlookers watched with attentiveness and the women sneered and so did the men, but for different reasons of course. "Jane seems to be enjoying herself." Lizzy smiled as she watched Mr. Bingley almost moved the wrong way because he was staring at Jane.

Elizabeth took leave of her sisters to go in search of Charlotte. She spotted her friend by the punch bowl and quickly joined her. The stood their chatting amiably for a few minutes when Mr. Darcy, unaware that Elizabeth was standing at the table, came for something to drink. He reached out for the ladle as Elizabeth was doing the same. The result was their hands touching on the ladle at the same time. Not realizing who the other's hand was, Darcy said for them to go first. Elizabeth recognized him immediately and poured the punch into a cup and handed it to him. "Glad to be of service sir." She smiled impertinently amusement shining in her eyes, before giving yet again another low curtsy and moving away with her friend on her arm, the two laughing leaving Darcy to stare in disdain.

When there was a break in the dance, Bingley brought his partner to the table that her sisters and Charlotte were sitting at while he went in search of his friend. They all pounced upon Jane about Mr. Bingley asking all sorts of questions, until they were satisfied with Jane's demure answers and blushes. It was not long before they were once again surrounded by admirers and Charlotte, quite used to her friends popularity ignored it along with them. When Jane had finally told all that she would, the Bennets and Charlotte turned to look behind them, where the object of their conversation was approaching his friend.

Mr. Bingley did not have to look far for his friend, in fact he was standing not far away from the party he had just left. He approached his friend, who seemed preoccupied staring into his cup of punch.

"Darcy? Must you stand there like an idiot all night? I must have you dance, I will not have you standing about in this stupid manner of yours!" The ladies, were within perfect hearing distance and Elizabeth had to stifle a laugh at his comment.

"I am perfectly content with standing here, stupid or not."

"I have never seen so many pretty girls in my life, and you are content with standing?"

"You are dancing with the only handsome girl in the room."

"She is the most beautiful creature I have ever beheld!" Lydia turned to look at her sister, and she was blushing furiously. "But, good God! Are you blind? You have eyes man, and I suggest you use them. She may be the most beautiful woman here, but her sisters are handsome as well. Why Miss Elizabeth is..."

"Bingley, I do not want to dance! Especially not with one who is only tolerable, surely not handsome enough to tempt me. And she takes great enjoyment out of playing servant!"

"Come now Darcy, you know as well as I that you called her one yourself, I believe she was having some fun with us, and it shows a lively disposition and a wit that could match your own!"

"I will not discuss this with you any further, and I suggest that you return to your partner, and enjoy her smiles for you are wasting your time with me."

All of the people at the table turned to look at Elizabeth, her shock was evident, she leaned back into her chair, then a small smile appeared, and it grew into a broad grin and she erupted into a fit of laughter. "I believe now that I do not have to talk to him!" she smiled.

Charlotte joined her saying, "Precisely, if he liked you, you would have to talk to him."

"As it is, I would not dance with him for all of Derbyshire, let alone the miserable half."

Soon all of the ladies at the table were laughing, and the admirers saw their chance and seized it. The five Bennet girls stood up with their partners, whom were agreeable acquaintances, and moved towards the set where the music began. All were dancing but Charlotte who watched on in amusement, when Mr. Bingley approached her and solicited her hand for the dance. He led her into the line and although it gratified her pride, Charlotte was not so blind as to think that Mr. Bingley held any preference for her, but she enjoyed her dance.

When the music was finished and the dancing broke up, a small party was formed by Mr. Bingley, Jane, Elizabeth, and Mrs. Bennet. Darcy, not wishing to be obliged to dance with Caroline, joined the party, but swore to remain silent, and as always his shadow followed him.

"Your friend Miss Lucas is a most amusing young woman!" Mr. Bingley laughed.

"Oh yes, I adore her." Lizzy replied.

Mrs. Bennet, not wishing the conversation to be about anything but Jane, decided to disparage her daughter's friend. "It is a pity she is not more handsome."

"Mama!" Lizzy admonished.

"Oh, but Lizzy, would never admit that she's plain. Of course, it is my Jane who is considered the beauty of the county, and my other daughters following behind in a close second through fifth, but I will let you be the judge of their places."

"No, Mama, Mama please!" Jane interrupted but Mrs. Bennet continued.

"When my Jane was only fifteen, there was a gentleman so much in love with her, that I was sure he would make her an offer however he did write her some very pretty verses!"

Jane looked to her sister for support, and seeing that her mother had paused for breath, Lizzy took her chance.

"And that put paid to it, I wonder who first discovered the power of poetry in driving away love." This was spoke in such a playful tone that Darcy could not keep silent, out of confusion, curiosity or something else, he found himself replying, "I thought that poetry was the food of love."

"Of a fine, stout love it may, but if it is only a vague inclination, I'm convinced one poor sonnet will kill it stone dead."

"So what do you recommend, to encourage affection?" he asked, stealing a glance at Bingley.

Amusement twinkled in her eyes when she answered him. "Dancing, even if one's partner is barely tolerable." she gave the group a curtsy as the music was about to begin, and then turned to leave, a half smirk across her face.

Darcy was shocked, she had heard his ungenerous comment about her to Bingley, and then threw it back in his face! As the dancing began again, Bingley moved away with Darcy, and as he did, he whispered to Darcy, "Miss Elizabeth, 2, Darcy, 0."

Chapter 4

Posted on Wednesday, 17 October 2007

The days following the Assembly were tedious at best. Mrs. Bennet’s incessant chatter and the monotony of the activities provided at Longbourn, was nothing short of dull. The piano held little to capture anyone’s attention, and even their father’s library could not keep them occupied. The girls felt that if they did not get out soon they would surely go mad.

As the sister’s sat in their parlour, Jane working at her embroidery, Elizabeth focusing on her book, Mary writing a letter, Kitty fiddling with her hair ribbons and Lydia gazing longingly out the window, they let out a collective sigh.

“Enough of this!” Lydia cried and she turned her gaze from the window to her sisters. “I am sick of being indoors, we must have some exercise! Why do we not walk into Meryton? I am sure that father could not object, and I am in desperate need of some fresh air!”

Her sister’s readily agreed to the plan and obtained their father’s permission.

“I do hope that while you are off having your fun, you will remember your poor Papa, and how you left him alone with your mother. I daresay she will not be to pleased with being left behind.”

“Somehow, I think you shall manage.” Lizzy said as she closed the door behind her.

With their father’s permission, the Bennet sisters set off for Meryton, as they were walking past Lucas Lodge, Charlotte called to them.

“Wait, *pant* I have *huff* an... *gasp*”

“Charlotte give yourself a second to catch your breath before you speak!” Mary said.

Charlotte stood with her hand to her heart, for a moment before regaining her composure. “You look as if you have run down from your rooms Charlotte.” Said Kitty.

“Indeed I have, I was staring out the window when I spotted you, I ran down as fast as I could, for I knew if I did not, there would be no catching you.”

“Well you have our attention.” Jane smiled.

“I wished to issue an invitation, my father is holding a party at Lucas Lodge tomorrow evening, in honour of the regiments arrival in Meryton, and you are all invited.”

“I do not believe we have any fixed plans, and we shall have to ask Papa, but I see no reason why we should not attend.” Jane answered.

“I look forward to it, now may I ask where all of my dear friends are headed?”

“We were heading into Meryton, you are welcome to join us if you like.” Lydia offered.

“I am afraid that I cannot, but if you should like to, you may stay here and visit, I know I should not mind the company.”

“We would not wish to trouble you.” Said Jane

“Truly it is no trouble at all, I have already called for tea, what are a few extra guests?”

Lizzy looked to her sisters, “If my sisters do not mind a change in plans, then I see no reason not to accept.”

"Er, is Maria at home?" Kitty asked.

Charlotte smiled knowingly at her friend, "No, she is over at the Martins'"

With the assurance of Maria's absence, there were no objections from any quarter and the the sisters followed Charlotte into the house.

The next evening brought the party at Lucas Lodge. After the usual introductions, and the customary “Capital, Capital!” The Bennets were free to roam about the room as they please, Kitty and Lydia were immediately accosted by Maria Lucas, and no amount of hints would get her to leave their persons, and they were resigned to spend half of the evening in her company. Jane was more agreeably engaged in a discussion with Mr. Bingley who had likewise approached her and whisked her off to a secluded corner of the room where they sat in quiet discussion. Elizabeth and Mary searched for Charlotte and found her in an earnest conversation with an officer, and they wisely decided not to interrupt. They instead sought out someone of their acquaintance, but to no avail, as everything was lost in a sea of red coats. They chose a spot by the fire, and chose to partake in one of their favourite pastimes, people watching.

“Look Mary, who do you suppose that gentleman is sitting by Mr. Darcy?”

“I do not know, but I think he is on his third glass of wine…or was it his fifth?”

“I lost count after his second glass, do you think he could be one of the Bingley party?”

“I am not sure, I have never seen him before, but then again I may have just overlooked him at the assembly.”

“Perhaps he has been…” As Lizzy was about to finish her sentence, Charlotte approached them, after taking her leave from the officer. “Ah Charlotte!” Lizzy said, leaning in to give her friend a kiss on the cheek. “Do you know who that gentleman is?” she asked, gesturing towards the man who picked up yet another glass of wine.

“Oh, yes, that is Mr. Hurst, he is Bingley’s brother-in-law, married to his elder sister.”

“Have they just arrived? I do not recall seeing them at the Assembly.”

“They have arrived last night, Mr. Hurst had been obliged to stay in town, as he had some business that he needed to attend to, and Mrs. Hurst refused to travel without her husband.”

“Truly? I would have wished the exact opposite, he may be a “gentleman” but he seems to enjoy his wine a little to much.”

“I would not be so certain Lizzy, he is very interesting to talk to, I do not believe that he is truly imbibing so much as it seems.”

“What do you mean Charlotte?” Mary piped in.

“If he were truly drinking so much, he would have been incoherent by now, most likely unconscious, I have been observing him closely, and I do not believe he has drunken a full glass.”

“He could have fooled me, although I suppose that if he had been drinking so much, Mr. Darcy would not be able to stand his presence.” Lizzy observed.

“Precisely,” Charlotte said.

“Even if he had been drinking so much, I do not think I could fault him for it.” Lizzy continued.

“Why ever not?” Mary asked.

“If I had a sister like Miss Bingley, I would resort to the bottle myself.”

Mary giggled a bit, while Lizzy asked, “Pray is Mrs. Hurst anything at all like her sister?”

“Nothing like her I assure you, she is very elegant, and although she has some pride, it is not enough to fault her with, she is very agreeable, much like her brother in that respect.”

“I am glad to hear of it.” Lizzy sighed and then turned her gaze towards her eldest sister, “If a match is forthcoming between Mr. Bingley and Jane, as I believe it is from the way he looks at her, then I am relieved to know that he has at least one sensible relation.”

With this new line of conversation, the three women were so occupied, Lizzy in particular, with observing Mr. Bingley’s attentions to her sister, that she was far from suspecting that she was herself becoming an object of some interest in the eyes of his friend.

Mr. Darcy had at first scarcely allowed her to be pretty, (her little charade had not helped her at all in that respect), he had looked at her without admiration at the ball; and when they next met, he looked at her only to criticise. But no sooner had he made it clear to himself and his friends that she had hardly a good feature in her face, than he began to find it was rendered uncommonly intelligent by the beautiful expression of her dark eyes. To this discovery succeeded some others equally mortifying. Though he had detected with a critical eye more than one failure of perfect symmetry in her form (why he was looking at her form one could only guess), he was forced to acknowledge her figure to be light and pleasing; and in spite of his asserting that her manners were not those of the fashionable world, he was caught by their easy playfulness. Of course to this she was perfectly unaware: to her he was only the man who made himself agreeable nowhere, and who had not thought her handsome enough to dance with.

He began to wish to know more of her; and, as a step towards conversing with her himself, attended to her conversation with others. His doing so drew her notice.

“What does Mr. Darcy mean,” said she to Charlotte and Mary, “by listening to my conversation with Colonel Forster?”

“Perhaps he needed you to fetch him some tea?” Mary teased.

“That is a question which Mr. Darcy only can answer.”

“But if he does it any more, I shall have to let him know that I see what he is about. He has a critical eye, and if I do not begin by being impertinent myself, I shall soon grow afraid of him.”

“I am sorry to say my dear sister, that you have already been impertinent to him.”

“Indeed Eliza, perhaps that is why he stares so, but I do not think that we should assume he is staring at anyone in particular, it could be a blank stare.” Charlotte mused.

“Perhaps he is asleep!” Lizzy said, earning herself some giggles from her companions. As the man in question began to approach Charlotte entreated with her friend.

“But I beg you Eliza, please do not mention this to him, I do not think that he would take kindly to it!”

Of course this immediately provoked Lizzy to do it, and she turned to him and said, “Did not you think, Mr. Darcy, that I expressed myself uncommonly well just now, when I was teasing Colonel Forster to give us a ball at Meryton?”

So shocked was he at being addressed, for all he had wanted was to move in closer so that he could hear the conversation, that he mumbled his agreement, but how it is something to make any lady energetic.

“You are severe on us!”

He was about to respond, when Charlotte intervened on his behalf. “It will be her turn soon to be teased, I am going to open the instrument, Eliza, and you know what follows.”

“You are a very strange creature by way of a friend! Always asking me to play and sing, but tonight, I shall not consent to anything of the sort, and I shall be happy to remain a bystander.”

“No my dear friend, I refuse your refusal! It would be very ungracious of you to refuse your hostess anything, and those who have not had the privilege of hearing you, and most of all those who have, would be most disappointed if you do not oblige us in this request.”

“If my vanity had taken a musical turn, you would have been an invaluable asset, but as it has not, I would much rather listen to those who are more talented then I, and I would rather not play in the company of those who are used to hearing the very best.” This last part was said with a side-glance to Mr. Darcy.

“I shall not give up so easily Eliza!”

“I shall make you a deal, if you can entreat my sisters to join me, then I have no objection to singing, but if even one objects, then I shall stay where I am.”

“Then we have a deal, Mary?” she said turning to the girl at her side.

“I have no objection.”

“Traitor!” Lizzy whispered to her sister, Darcy overheard this last remark, and his lips twitched ever so slightly, before his features were quickly schooled, only his eyes giving away his amusement. Charlotte made her way to Jane, who reluctantly agreed, after several entreaties from Bingley. When Charlotte came to the last two Bennet sisters, they were so desperate for an escape from Maria that they would have agreed to just about anything to get away from her. Charlotte came back to Lizzy, Jane and Kitty and Lydia, closely behind, and gave her a smug smile. “Now Eliza, your sisters have agreed and as per the deal, you must sing!”

Lizzy let out a sigh of defeat. “If it must be so, it must. There is a fine old saying that I am sure you are familiar with, ‘Keep your breath to cool your porridge,’ and I shall keep mine to swell my song.”

The sisters all assembled near the piano, and arranged it so that Elizabeth would play the pieces, and sing the soprano with Jane, Mary would sing alto, and Kitty and Lydia harmony. The Militia, who made up most of the party that night had heard reports of the sister’s beauty and were not disappointed in the least when they had met the “famous” Bennet sisters. They had also heard of their equally famous voices, and how it was not unusual for them to form a quintet, instead of singing solo. The guests all gathered ‘round the piano and the sisters took their places at the instrument. The Netherfield party however, thought that it was strange; a duet was not a rare occurrence in London, but rarely a trio, and most certainly never a quartet, but a quintet? It was unheard of, and even Miss Bingley drew near, to watch or rather listen, to this strange exhibit.

Lizzy began to play, and as the sisters opened their mouths and the lyrics came to life, the room went still, each person enchanted as the music danced around each person, and some were afraid to breath, as if any movement would bring the moment to an end. As the music came to a close, the room was absolutely still, until Sir William Lucas cried “Capital! Capital!” bringing the others out of their trance, and the applause began. Entreaties for more were heard from all, but the girls declined and moved away for others to exhibit. They were now surrounded by a group of officers, receiving praise for their singing, when Bingley persistently pushed his way through the crowd, pulling his friend with him. They gave their bows as Bingley said, “That was truly remarkable! I do not remember hearing anything like it or giving me so much pleasure.”

“We thank you sir.” Jane blushed as he gazed at her.

Maria Lucas pushed her way through the crowd and made her way towards Kitty and Lydia, and entreated them to help her start the dancing. Knowing it would be rude to refuse their hostess, and unlike their elder sister having scruples to that effect, reluctantly agreed and Maria turned to Mary, and asked her to play a jig. Although she had no inclination to play at the moment, she consented and moved towards the piano, striking up an air as the ladies were asked to dance. Bingley quickly secured Jane’s hand, leaving Darcy with Elizabeth and Charlotte. Lizzy, not wishing to be forced into dancing with Mr. Darcy, quickly moved away with Charlotte leaving him to himself.

Darcy stood near the dancing, watching in silent indignation at such a mode of passing the evening, to the exclusion of all conversation, and was too much engrossed by his own thoughts to perceive that Sir William Lucas was his neighbour, till Sir William thus began – “What a charming amusement for young people this is, Mr. Darcy! There is nothing like dancing, after all. I consider it as one of the first refinements of polished societies.”

“Certainly, sir;” ‘what is this idiot talking about? Dancing?’ “and it has the advantage also of being in vogue amongst the less polished societies.” ‘There that could be applied to anything!’

“Dancing sir?” was his confused reply.

‘So it was dancing!’ “Every savage can dance.”

“Sir William only smiled. “Your friend performs delightfully, and I doubt not that you are an adept in the science yourself, Mr. Darcy.”

“You saw me dance at Meryton, I believe sir.”

“Yes, indeed and received no inconsiderable pleasure from the sight. Do you often dance at St. James’s?”

“Never, sir.”

“Do you not think it would be a proper compliment to the place?”

“It is a compliment which I never pay to any place if I can avoid it.”

“You have a house in town, I conclude.”

‘What does this man want from me?! I think I preferred him when he only said Capital!’

Meanwhile, Lizzy had spotted Lydia, still trapped in conversation with Maria, but Kitty could not be seen anywhere. Lizzy looked towards where the couples were dancing, she smiled as she saw her eldest sister standing up once again with Bingley. She then turned her attention to the piano when Mary made a rather obvious mistake, which was not usual for Mary was most adept at the piano. She raised a brow to her sister who tossed her head in the direction of her missing sister. Kitty was in conversation with one of the officers, and seemingly enjoying herself, but Lizzy knew better. Her sister was twirling her hair with one of her fingers, while she was speaking to him, and if that did not give it away, when her eyes caught Lizzy’s they were pleading for an escape. Mary had spotted this first, but could do nothing while she was stationed at the piano, so drew her notice. Lizzy made her way towards her sister when Sir William Lucas called out to her. “My dear Miss Eliza, why are not you dancing? Mr. Darcy, you must allow me to present this young lady to you as a very desirable partner. You cannot refuse to dance, I am sure, when so much beauty is before you.” And taking her hand, he would have given it to Mr. Darcy, who, though extremely surprised, was not unwilling to receive it, when she instantly drew back, glancing from Mr. Darcy, to Sir William, then to her distressed sister. She said with some discomposure to Sir William, - “Indeed, sir, I have not the least intention of dancing. I entreat you not to suppose that I moved this way in order to beg for a partner.”

Mr. Darcy with grave propriety, requested to be allowed the honour of her hand, but in vain, as Lizzy was sure of two things. The first was that her sister needed her assistance and the second, was that she was convinced that neither she, nor he wanted dance. She was determined; nor did Sir William at all shake her purpose by his attempt at persuasion.

“You excel so much in the dance, Miss Eliza, that it is cruel to deny me the happiness of seeing you; and though this gentleman dislikes the amusement in general, he can have no objection, I am sure, to oblige us for one half hour.” ‘No objection at all!’ Darcy thought.

“Mr. Darcy is all politeness,” said she, smiling.

“He is, indeed: but, considering the inducement, my dear Miss Eliza, we cannot wonder at his complaisance; for who would object to such a partner?”

“Who indeed?” she said, smiling archly before turning away, hurrying towards her sister, and Darcy recalled something Bingley had said to him at the Assembly. ‘Correction sir, Miss Elizabeth, 3, myself, 0’

Her resistance had not injured her with the gentleman, and he was thinking of her with some complacency, when thus accosted by Miss Bingley, - “I can guess the subject of your reverie.”

“I should imagine not.” ‘Indeed if you could you would not be so smug.’

“You are considering how insupportable it would be to pass many evenings in this manner, - in such society; and, indeed, I am quite of your opinion. I was never more annoyed! The insipidity, and yet the noise; - the nothingness, and yet the self-importance of all these people! What would I give to hear your strictures on them!”

“Your conjecture is totally wrong, I assure you. My mind was more agreeably engaged. I have been meditating on the very great pleasure which a pair of fine eyes in the face of a pretty woman can bestow.”

Miss Bingley immediately fixed her eyes on his face, and desired he would tell her what lady had the credit of inspiring such reflections. Mr. Darcy replied with great intrepidity, - “Miss Elizabeth Bennet.”

He instantly regretted it, for Miss Bingley’s jealousy was thinly veiled into a wit, that flowed long on his future mother-in-law and sisters, although the latter he had seen nothing of which for them to be ashamed of.

“Thanks a lot Lizzy!” Kitty cried as she threw a pillow at her sister’s head. Lizzy dodged the pillow, only for it to hit Jane in the face. “Sorry Jane that was meant for Lizzy!”

“I got to you as fast as I could, but Sir William insisted that I dance with Mr. Darcy, and aside from the fact that I would take no pleasure in any such thing, I was most anxious to get to you!”

“You should have ignored him!”

“Kitty he grabbed my hand! I could not very well pull him along as well!”

“Although it would be more amusing.” Said Lydia.

“Why are you not angry with Lydia? Or Mary? Or Jane for that matter?”

“Because Lydia was being held captive by Maria Lucas, who would only have encouraged the officer, no matter how hard Lydia might have tried. Mary was stuck at the piano, also Maria Lucas’ fault, and Jane was held captive by Mr. Bingley!”

“And I was held captive by Sir William!” Lizzy cried in mock anger.

“It seems to me that your anger should be placed with the Lucas’ except for Charlotte of course.” Mary said.

“Perhaps, but it would be impolite to injure them, while my sister, well we never cared for the niceties now have we?” she said, throwing yet another pillow at Lizzy, who dodged it once again, and hitting poor Jane again in the face. “Sorry Jane.” Kitty said, trying to hold back laughter at her eldest sisters frustrated expression, for who likes getting pillows thrown at their face?

“Perhaps you should stop throwing pillows.” Jane said.

“Perhaps Lizzy should quit moving!” she said, throwing another pillow at her sister, who yet again dodged it, and it hit Jane once again.

“That’s it!” Jane cried picking up the pillows throwing them at Kitty and Lizzy. The others joined in and the Bennet sisters hit each other with pillows until they eventually fell asleep from exhaustion …or became unconscious from the pillows thrown at one another’s heads.

Chapter 5

Posted on Friday, 2 November 2007

When Elizabeth awoke later in the night, she could have laughed out in amusement. She was lying on her bed, a pillow had been placed, or thrown, onto her face; she removed the pillow to see the sight of her sisters all in disarray strewn about the bed. Jane, being so obliging even in her sleep, had given up a great deal of her portion of the bed, to make room for her sisters, so close to the edge was she that Elizabeth had fear of her falling out. Elizabeth herself was a different story. Not being one who could be walked all over, she had made herself the most comfortable by being situated in the middle of the bed, while Mary was sleeping to her left, in between herself and poor Jane. Kitty and Lydia were to her right, and by the looks of the wrinkled sheets below them, they had been fighting during the night over the pillow that both of their heads now lay upon. Elizabeth pulled her pillow back to her face and stifled her laughter.

How she loved her sisters, although they had been known at times to drive her to wits end, Elizabeth would not trade any one of them for the world, or a brother she thought, once again stifling her laughter in her pillow. She remembered how things had been before they had come ‘out’, how she and Jane were inseparable, how poor Mary was the odd sister out because her two younger sisters had paired up with each other. How much closer they had all become since then. Elizabeth was startled out of her reverie when she heard a loud ‘Thud!’. Elizabeth sat upright and saw that Jane had fallen out of the bed.

“Ouch!” she heard her sister whisper in frustration.

It is a truth universally acknowledged that even angels need their sleep, and Jane Bennet was no different. Once fully awaken, she was the sweetest person one could ever have the pleasure of knowing, but when mornings came and it was time for her to be awakened, most people would prefer to let a sleeping Jane lie.

Elizabeth peered cautiously over Mary and looked down as Jane was sitting on the floor rubbing her head. “Are you alright?”

“If I was alright would I be sitting on the floor?” Jane snapped.

“How did you sleep?” Elizabeth asked with amusement.

“Terrific!” Jane said rolling her eyes.

The clock in the hallway chimed three, and Jane turned back to her sister and then looked towards the pile of Bennets in her bed, “Now what are we supposed to do?”

“What do you mean we I was not the one who fell out of the bed, and” she smiled turning to Mary, “by the looks of our sister, you are not likely to get your spot back.”

“Oh no, Lizzy, if I may not sleep, then I shall not allow you to!” she hissed.

“Dear Jane, is that a threat?”

“Not a threat, a promise.”

“Call it what you may, but I do believe my angelic sister has just threatened me.” Lizzy cried feigning shock.

“Call me what you may, but even angels need their rest!”

Lizzy laughed at her sister’s anger and frustration. Elizabeth had always taken great amusement in waking her sister every morning, as no one else was brave enough to do it, but she also knew that her sister did deserve her sleep more then anyone in the house, as her patience and forbearance were taxed each day, although Jane would never admit it. “Very well, I shall help you with your problem.” She crawled out of the bed and stood by her sister.

“No, not my problem, ours” Jane corrected.

“Perhaps we should sleep in one of their rooms tonight, I do not wish to wake them.”

“Wake them for all I care! But mark my words Lizzy, if I shall not sleep in my bed, then we shall not sleep at all!”

Lizzy would have laughed at her sister’s uncharacteristic behavior, but she knew that Jane was perfectly serious, and Lizzy herself was very tired.

“Perhaps…” she began, thinking out loud. “Could we carry them?”

Jane readily agreed to the plan, as she was willing to do almost anything to get her bed back. Carefully, Jane and Lizzy worked together to take each of their sisters one by one, back to their respective beds. They had successfully managed to tuck each of their younger sisters in without so much as waking them, and once back in their own beds, Jane had been awakened and her good humor restored.

“Jane, before we go back to sleep, I do so wish to hear your opinion on our new neighbors.”

“Well, Mr. Darcy is a bit intimidating, but I do not find him as horrible as you have professed him to be, but I am not sure, I have not known him long. Miss Bingley, is very elegant, and agreeable when you get to know her. I have not met Mr. or Mrs. Hurst yet, but I believe we shall find them to be charming neighbors.”

“Jane, you know that is not what I meant! What think you of Mr. Bingley?” she cried.

Jane turned thoughtful for a moment and fixed her gaze on the sheets. “Mr. Bingley is just what a young man ought to be. Sensible, good humored-“

“Handsome, conveniently rich!” Lizzy teased.

“You know perfectly well that I do not believe marriage should be driven by a lot of money!” Jane answered.

“I agree entirely!” she smiled at her sister before continuing, “Only the deepest love will persuade me into matrimony,” she turned thoughtful for a moment, “which is why I shall end an old maid.”

“Do you really believe he like me Lizzy?” she asked hopefully.

“Jane, he danced with you most of the night and stared at you for the rest of it.” Jane blushed as her sister continued. “But I give you leave to like him you have liked many a stupider person.”

“Lizz-“ Jane started but was cut off.

“You are a great deal to apt to like people in general you know! All the world is good and agreeable in your eyes.”

“Not his friend, oh I still can’t believe what he said about you.”

“Mr. Darcy.” She smiled as she remembered her payback for his comment. “I could more easily forgive his vanity, had he not wounded mine” she smiled, “But no matter I doubt that we shall ever speak again.”

Jane was silent for a moment under her sister’s scrutiny before Lizzy burst into laughter sending Jane into a fit of giggles. Soon after the girls found sleep.

Gratified were all of Mrs. Bennet’s matchmaking skills the day that the invitation to dine at Netherfield arrived for her eldest daughter. Although her triumph was somewhat lessened by that fact that the gentlemen were to be dining with the officers, she still pressed her daughter to accept, although she need not have pressed Jane as she had no intention of declining the invitation.

“Can I take the carriage?” Jane asked as he mother ripped the letter out of her hands.

“Unaccountable, of his dining out indeed!” was her reply.

“Mama, the carriage for Jane?” Lizzy pleaded.

Mrs. Bennet was silent for a moment before folding up the letter. “Certainly not, she’ll go on horseback.”

“Horseback!” cried her daughters.

As the girls started to protest, the thunder roared outside, causing many worried glances about the sisters. They began to argue, but Mrs. Bennet was adamant, Jane was to go to Netherfield, on horseback.

Mrs. Bennet’s hopes were answered; Jane had not been gone long before it rained hard. Her sisters were uneasy for her, but her mother was delighted.

“This was a lucky idea of mine, indeed!” said Mrs. Bennet, more than once, as if the credit of making rain were all her own. Till the next morning, however, she was not aware of all the felicity of her contrivance. Mrs. Bennet and her daughters were in the kitchen, dying ribbons, when a servant from Netherfield brought the following note for Elizabeth: -

“

My dearest Lizzy,

I find myself very unwell this morning, which, I suppose is to be imputed to my getting wet through yesterday. My kind friends will not hear of my returning home until I am better, do not be alarmed, for excepting a sore throat, a fever, and a headache, there is nothing much wrong with me. Please do not worry over me, and I expect to return home soon.

Your loving sister,

Jane

“This is ridiculous!” Elizabeth cried as her mother was giggling in excitement, her sisters were just as angry with their mother as Elizabeth.

“If Jane does die of this fever, it will be a comfort to know that it was in pursuit of Mr. Bingley.” said Mr. Bennet looking up from his book.

“People do not die of colds!” said a giddy Mrs. Bennet.

"But, she may well perish with the shame of having such a mother!" said Elizabeth. Lydia giggled, but grew serious upon recollection that Jane was sick and it was her mother's doing.

“Mama! Have you no shame? Poor Jane is lying sick, and it is entirely your fault!” cried Kitty.

Before Mrs. Bennet could respond to such an attack Elizabeth broke in with, “I must go to Netherfield at once.” And rising to get up she would have turned to leave had not her sisters joined in with her.

“We shall all go!” Mary said.

“You do not have-“

“Please Lizzy, we shall not be an inconvenience, we just wish to help Jane.” Lydia pleaded.

“I know that we are not as close as-“ Kitty started, but Elizabeth already knew what she was going to say and quickly dispelled that notion.

"Well I cannot spare all four of you!" cried Mrs. Bennet, "Two of you must stay behind, Lydia, Mary, you shall not go to Netherfield as you are needed here!"

No argument could persuade Mrs. Bennet into letting them go, and so it was only Elizabeth and Kitty who were permitted to go. Elizabeth, on account of being her least favorite daughter, and Kitty, because Mrs. Bennet was angered at her earlier comment.

"Miss Elizabeth Bennet and Miss Catherine Bennet, sir." announced the servant to Mr. Darcy and Miss Bingley.

If Darcy was shocked at hearing Elizabeth's name, it was nothing compared with her appearance when she entered the breakfast room with Kitty at her side. Their hair was disheveled and their petticoats six inches deep in mud, but none of this was noticed by Darcy, who thought he had never seen anyone so beautiful as Elizabeth Bennet was at this moment. He was so mesmerized he had almost forgotten the civilities and stood to bow belatedly. This went unobserved by Elizabeth, but not by Miss Bingley nor by Kitty, who tried to hold back her laughter.

Miss Bingley's shock and dismay she did not try to hide when she cried, "Good Lord, Miss Elizabeth, Miss Catherine, did you walk here!?"

"We did." was Elizabeth's reply.

Silence reigned for a few moments before she added, "I'm so sorry how is our sister?"

"She's upstairs." was Darcy's almost too quick reply, which did not even answer her question. This also did not go unnoticed by Kitty and the way the Mr. Darcy was staring at her sister did not look anything akin to disapprobation but more of admiration.

"Thank you." Elizabeth answered before she and Kitty gave their curtsies, and as Elizabeth walked out before her, Kitty saw how Mr. Darcy's eyes followed her sister out the door. She tried to hold in her laughter until she was outside of the room with her sister.

A safe distance away from the door, Elizabeth began, "Well I do believe we have made an impression, but not a favorable one I am afraid."

"You certainly made an impression on Mr. Darcy, but I do not think that is was unfavorable!"

"Mr. Darcy! What ever are you speaking of Kitty?" she cried.

"He could not take his eyes off of you the whole time we were in that room! And I am not the only one who noticed, Miss Bingley turned positively green!"

"Kitty, Mr. Darcy only looks at me to criticize and Miss Bingley is always green!"

"If he looks at you to criticize Lizzy, then so does every other male of our acquaintance! I swear he was stunned by you Lizzy!" Kitty cried, "Do not you trust me?"

"Of course I trust you, as I do my other sisters, but Kitty the only impression that I have ever given Mr. Darcy has been tolerable." she laughed, but her sister did not join her.

Kitty chose not to respond to the last part of her sister's speech and said, "If you trust me then believe me when I say that if Mr. Darcy had ever found you only to be tolerable, he no longer believes that!"

"Kitty, I do not think..."

"That is right, you do not think!" Kitty laughed before she continued seriously, "But, Lizzy, what would I gain by saying these things if I did not believe them to be true? I wouldn’t tell you he thought you pretty, if I didn't see his reaction myself, you have already made your opinion of him known, so I wouldn’t say this to spare your feelings."

Elizabeth had to admit that her sister would not be saying this to gratify her vanity, but that still did not make her believe all that her sister said, and even if she did, it would not change that Mr. Darcy was the most arrogant, conceited, disagreeable man of her acquaintance...did it? She shook her head and the subject was dropped between the sisters as they approached Jane's door. All thoughts about Mr. Darcy were gone, and replaced with those of Jane.